KP government suspends two forest guards over alleged illegal logging in Mahodand valley

SWAT, Jun 14 (APP): The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has suspended two forest guards and ordered a high-level inquiry into alleged illegal logging and timber smuggling in the scenic Mahodand Valley of Kalam following media reports highlighting unchecked tree felling in the environmentally sensitive region.

The action was taken after a report by journalist Haroon Siraj drew attention to the alleged illegal cutting of trees in Mahodand and adjoining forests for commercial purposes. The report raised concerns over the depletion of forest cover in one of Swat’s most renowned tourist destinations and questioned the effectiveness of local forest authorities in curbing the practice.

Secretary Forests Junaid Khan suspended forest guards Naseem of the Oshu Forest Block and Hazrat Hussain of the Mahodand Beat on charges of alleged negligence. A formal inquiry has been launched, with Conservator Forests Mazhar Iqbal and Divisional Forest Officer Malakand Range Waseem Khan tasked with investigating the matter and submitting a report within three days. The inquiry committee will assess the extent of the alleged timber-smuggling network and recommend action against any officials or individuals found responsible.

Environmental experts have described the reported deforestation as a serious threat to biodiversity, climate resilience and disaster-risk reduction efforts in the region. They warn that continued tree loss in upper catchment areas such as Mahodand can accelerate soil erosion, destabilize mountain slopes and increase the likelihood of floods and landslides. The issue has gained greater significance following the devastating floods that struck Swat Valley last year, underscoring the importance of forest conservation in safeguarding ecosystems, protecting watersheds and supporting Pakistan’s commitments under national climate policies and international agreements.